I had the great good fortune to play this song in concert while my grandmother was in the audience. I treasure that memory.
The Depression was brutally hard on her generation. She learned that hard-work, strict economy and family togetherness can triumph over difficult times. Behind her somewhat stern exterior there was boundless love.
She was spry and sharp into her 90’s, and my own children got to know her well. I’m very grateful for that.
Grandma’s Song D 63 (126) ©1998 Dave Hadfield
Grandma was a teacher, she taught all of her life.
Hard-working lady, mother and wife.
One of a kind to all, the people she met,
And part of our lives even yet.
Grandma was a farmer, spent her life on the land.
Started with nothing, but her love, and her hands,
And no one I know could work harder than she,
But she was always Grandma, for me.
Love grows, and the hard work shows.
There’s a house on a hill at the end of the lane,
Still full, and loved by those,
Who come back there for Grandma again.
Grandma was a sister, born the 8th, out of ten,
Up in north Bruce County, and each one was a friend.
Growing up strong with those who first cleared the land,
And sharing a dream that was grand.
Grandma was a prayer, a simple trust in the Lord.
Go to church on Sunday, sing the hymns, feel restored.
And later in life, after Grandpa had gone,
It gave her the strength to go on.
[chorus, then last line 2 more times]